The start-up company, then known as Maestro, launched its cloud-based, label-scanning “smart” oven in 2015 and soon added the meal kit subscription offering after winning the University of Chicago’s New Venture Challenge, garnering interest from investors and venture capitalists.

Tyson Ventures joins other investors, including Morningstar Inc.’s Joe Mansueto, the Pritzker Group, Origin Ventures, restauranteur Larry Levy and Y Combinator in the Series A round of funding.

“Our venture capital fund was created to invest in promising entrepreneurs who are on the cutting edge of innovation in the food industry,” said Justin Whitmore, Tyson Foods’ executive vice president of corporate strategy and chief sustainability officer. “Our investment in Tovala gives us another opportunity to explore new ways of meeting consumer demand and shape the future of food. We look forward to our collaboration,” he added.

Funding from the latest round is slated to be used as an investment in Tovala’s next growth stage, which includes hiring employees, expansion of facilities, products, technologies and marketing campaigns.

Tovala co-founder, David Rabie, said his company’s mission is to bring convenience and quality food to consumers eating at home. “By controlling the experience end-to-end including the hardware, software, and food, our customers benefit by not having to sacrifice convenience, health or taste,” he said. “We’re excited to work with Tyson Foods to explore bringing a wider variety of meals to our customers’ homes."